Jellyfish continue to sting beachgoers in Brevard County

Determined vacationers swim despite risk

Just when you thought it was safe to go back into the water, red and purple-colored jellyfish continued to cause problems for Memorial Day beachgoers in Brevard County.

Eisen Witcher of the Brevard County Ocean Rescue said Monday stings by the ping-pong ball-sized creatures remained steady– about 200 a day – for most of the weekend, especially in Cocoa Beach and Cape Canaveral.

"We still have the same quantity of jellyfish," Witcher said, adding there have been less jellyfish stings have been reported in Melbourne.

But they haven't kept determined vacationers from taking a dip in the ocean.

"Some are braving it," Witcher said. "We're not telling anyone to not go in the water."

Most stings have occurred in ankle-deep water, Witcher said. Jellyfish stings, which may cause a rash or a welt, are typically treated at the beach with vinegar. Witcher said there have been no major incidents related to jellyfish stings.

The large amount of jellyfish on Brevard County beaches is a result of relatively calm waters and an onshore breeze blowing them toward the beach, he said.

Witcher said he isn't sure how long they will remain a threat, adding, "It's all up to the ocean currents."